America the Beautiful Five Ounce Silver Coins

In late 2010, the United States Mint released a new series of coins with some unique characteristics. The America the Beautiful Five Ounce Silver Coins
contain 5 troy ounces of .999 fine silver and have a diameter of 3.0
inches. The weight, fineness, and purity of each coin are indicated on
incuse edge lettering. Designs for each coin are taken from the
circulating quarter dollars issued through the America the Beautiful
Quarters Program.

The
series experienced an unusually turbulent launch with the release of
the first five designs of the series at the end of 2010. The coins were
released following a long delay due to production challenges. The total
mintage of coins released was small compared to the initial demand,
resulting in special rules for the distribution of coins.

The
following year went more smoothly, with the second five designs released
in larger quantities, which fulfilled demand from the market. However,
by 2012 demand had decline leading the US Mint to significantly curtail
production levels. The mintages for the five 2012 designs came in at the
lowest levels of the series, which drove secondary market premiums
higher.

In addition to the bullion versions produced for precious
metals investors, the US Mint has also offered a collectible version of
the coin. These have a special uncirculated finish created through a
vapor blasting technique and carry the "P" mint mark on the obverse. The
coins sold out of their established maximum production levels for 2010,
but sold fewer units in 2011. For 2012, the US Mint curtailed
production, leading to early sell outs and high secondary market
premiums.

So far, the series has certainly kept collectors on their
toes. The low mintages experienced for the 2012-dated releases have rewarded
dedicated collectors of the series with higher values. Demand for subsequent issues been higher signaling increased collector interest and solidifying the status of the earlier keys.